April 2023
Simplified Technical English (STE) is a writing standard that is gaining popularity in the technical writing industry. It is designed to help writers create clear and concise technical documentation that is easily understood by a wide audience. If you’re a technical writer who is hesitant about using STE, here are some reasons why you should consider giving it a try.
First and foremost, using STE can improve the clarity of your writing. Technical documents can often be dense and difficult to understand, especially for those who are not familiar with the subject matter. By using STE, you can simplify your language, making it easier for readers to understand what you are trying to convey. This is especially important for industries such as aviation, where misinterpretation of technical documentation can have serious consequences.
In addition to improving clarity, using STE can also make your writing more consistent. The language rules of STE provide a standardized way of writing technical documentation, ensuring that all documents follow the same format and style. This can be especially useful for companies that produce a large volume of technical documentation, as it can help to ensure that all documents are consistent and easy to understand.
When writing technical documentation, it can be time-consuming and costly to have to constantly edit and revise your work to make it clearer and more concise. By using STE, you can reduce the amount of time and money you spend on editing and revision, as your writing will be clear and concise from the outset.
Using STE in technical documentation can also help ensure compliance with regulations and standards. For example, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) mandates the use of STE in the documentation of safety-critical systems and equipment in aerospace. Similarly, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) require the use of STE in their standards for electrical and electronic equipment where possible.
Simplified Technical English is a game changer in the field of technical writing. It improves the clarity and consistency of technical documentation, makes it more accessible to a wider audience, reduces the risk of misinterpretation, and can save organizations time and money. As more and more industries adopt STE, it is clear that this controlled language will continue to play an important role in technical communication for years to come.
